GOLFER Colin Montgomerie is backing our Maggie’s campaign by giving people a unique chance to win a place at the Ryder Cup practice session.

The 47-year-old set up the Elizabeth Montgomerie Foundation in memory of his mother who died of lung cancer in January 1991, with the aim of raising funds to provide information and support to those affected by cancer.

In support of Maggie’s, the Scotsman wrote to every club in the North East and UK, inviting them to turn their monthly medal competitions into Monty’s Monthly Medal. With the chance to win a table for 10 at the Ryder Cup practice session on September 30 – the day before the competition begins – or have Colin visit the winning club for half a day to coach the junior section, entering Monty’s Monthly Medals is something many clubs are considering.

One club that has already signed up is the Northumberland Golf Club in Gosforth.

Jamie Forteath, club secretary, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Maggie’s because, like all charities, it does an excellent job.

“Colin has also supported our chosen charity in the past, and we are pleased to return the favour”.

Colin said: “I have witnessed the huge difference Maggie’s Centres make for people living with cancer.

“In 2009, Maggie’s Centres across the UK received almost 80,000 visits. The numbers will increase in 2010, and with plans to open a further seven centres in the next two-years, it is an important time for the organisation, and I am delighted to help in any way I can through the Elizabeth Montgomerie Foundation.”

Denise Heron, community fundraiser for Maggie’s North East, said: “It’s fantastic the Northumberland Golf Club has signed up to Monty’s Monthly Medal and I wish them the best of luck in the competition.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Colin and the Elizabeth Montgomerie Foundation for the support shown to Maggie’s.”